spring in three verses

I.
water flowing in streets
seeking low spots
and clear drains
last fall’s leaves
clump
slowing the rushing flow
until the snow shovel
clears the way.

II.
listening for spring
arriving overhead
geese calling out
above the winter song
of chickadees
cackling magpies and
the caws and chatter of ravens.

III.
Squeaking bicycle chain
puddle-splattered fenders
grit and water on pants cuffs.
knuckles red and windburned
anticipation of spring
not realized,
instead, reminder:
winter does not withdraw
without a fight.


a little warm-up from the write-a-thon.